Postdoc in Theory of Quantum Optics at the Deep Nanoscale – DTU Electro

Danmarks Tekniske Universitet; Ørsted; On-site; DKK 450,000 - 550,000; Full time

Job summary

DTU Electro, part of Danmarks Tekniske Universitet, seeks a theoretical postdoc to advance quantum optics in nanoscale resonators with strong light–matter interaction. You will lead a research project, collaborate with students and senior researchers, and publish in top journals while engaging with academic and industrial partners.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in physics or related field, with proven theoretical optics expertise, strong programming skills, and fluent English.

Qualifications

• PhD in physics, electrical engineering, photonics, applied physics, or closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in theoretical quantum optics and nanophotonics modelling based on quasinormal modes.
• Strong publication record aligned with career stage.
• Excellent written and spoken English; ability to communicate complex results clearly.

Responsibilities

• Drive your own research project within the group and collaborate with PhD students and researchers.
• Publish results in peer‑reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
• Co‑supervise PhD and MSc students and contribute to an inclusive research environment.
• Engage in collaborations with DTU groups and external academic/industrial partners.
• Contribute to research proposals and dissemination of results.

Skills

Theoretical quantum optics

Nanophotonics modelling

Scientific programming

English proficiency

Independent collaboration in team

Education

PhD in physics or closely related field

Tools

Python

MATLAB

COMSOL

Lumerical

Job description

Join a world‑leading research group conducting research at the intersection between nanophotonics, nanomechanics, quantum optics, semiconductors, and nanotechnology. We are strengthening our team with a theoretical postdoc position to answer fundamental research questions and illuminate new research directions while at the same time having strong potential for real‑world impact.

Responsibilities and qualifications

As a postdoc in the Photonic Nanotechnology group, you will drive your own research project while contributing to the broader scientific output of the group, working closely with PhD students, fellow postdocs, and senior researchers in a highly collaborative international environment.

For this position, we are looking for a theoretical physicist to work on quantum optics in nanoscale electromagnetic resonators with deep subwavelength confinement and extreme light‑matter interaction. We are particularly interested in modal theories of dissipative quantum systems and the construction of such theories for practical quantum optics experiments to be carried out by fellow group members or our collaborators. Your main responsibilities will include:

• Carry out original research on theoretical quantum optics at the deep nanoscale.
• Publishing your results in leading peer‑reviewed journals and presenting them at international conferences.
• Co‑supervising PhD and MSc students and contributing to a positive, inclusive, and curiosity‑driven research environment.
• Engaging in collaborations with other groups at DTU and with our external academic and industrial partners.
• Contributing to research proposals and to the dissemination of results to academic, industrial, and broader audiences.

We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a strong scientific track record. The ideal applicant will have:

• A PhD (or equivalent) in physics, electrical engineering, photonics, applied physics, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in theoretical quantum optics and nanophotonics modelling based on quasinormal modes.
• Solid skills in scientific programming and numerical modelling with tools such as Python, MATLAB, COMSOL, Lumerical, or similar.
• A strong publication record commensurate with the career stage.
• Excellent written and spoken English and the ability to communicate complex scientific results clearly to specialist and non‑specialist audiences.
• The ability to work independently while collaborating constructively in a diverse, international team.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

We offer

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures.

The period of employment is 2 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information

Further information may be obtained from Senior Researcher Philip Trøst Kristensen ([e-mail]) or Professor Søren Stobbe ([e-mail]).

DTU Electro has more than 300 employees with competencies in electrical and photonics engineering. Research is performed within nanophotonics, lasers, quantum photonics, optical sensors, LEDs, photovoltaics, ultra‑high speed optical transmission systems, bio‑photonics, acoustics, power electronics, robotics, and autonomous systems. See more on DTU Electro.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open‑source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.

Location

Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark

Apply Before

2026-09-08T21:59:00+00:00